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Telecom Generator Project Completed

[Creation Date: 08-Jun-01]

Critical computing, telephone and voice mail services on campus are now fully protected from power outages, thanks to the installation of a final backup generator at the W.E.B. Du Bois Library.

"This is a part of a continuing effort by the Office of Information Technologies to install generators at critical communications centers across the campus," said Telecom Technical Services Manager John Cavender.

The library generator provides emergency power to Telecom facilities in the building, as well as Five-College computing facilities. When there is a commercial power failure, Cavender said, the generators start automatically within 10 to 15 seconds, to provide emergency power.

The Caterpillar generator runs on natural gas, and is capable of generating 250 Kilowatts of electricity. The permanent generator replaces a portable unit that was located on the walkway area between the library and South College. The new generator went online Tuesday, June 5.

As part of the same project, five other generators were previously installed in the areas of Southwest, Sylvan, the Lederle low rise, School of Management, and Orchard Hill. These units run on diesel fuel instead of natural gas. They support a wide range of Telecom facilities, as well as OIT computing facilities and PC classrooms in LGRC. All units are tested and inspected on a biweekly basis to insure functionality.

If you have any questions about the generator project, please contact the Telecom Customer Service office at 545-2171.